Ford Racing MSVTA Handling Pack Suspension Kit Install

With the release of the all-new Mustang chassis in 2005, Ford engineers finally stepped away from the antiquated Fox-era modified McPherson strut design and non-parallel four-link rear suspension to give us a true McPherson strut front and proven three-link rear design with a fixed Panhard bar for lateral axle control. Gone were band-aids like Quad Shocks. In 2005, the Mustang received the start of a true handling suspension under its sleek new body. However, like any OE-designed suspension, there are plenty of areas that can use improvement, from the OE bushing material (for a more compliant ride and less noise), to anti-sway bar diameter, to spring rate and overall ride height.

Of course, these concessions are what make the aftermarket thrive. But don't think Ford turned a blind eye. They realize the limitations of assembly line requirements, warranty restrictions, and more. So it's no surprise that one of the first upgrades for the then-new '05 Mustang from our friends at Ford Racing Performance Parts (FRPP) was suspension hardware. The '05 Mustang was also FRPP's first foray into the performance parts package concept, which groups a set of suspension components that are factory engineered to work together to enhance the S197 Mustang's handling. This Handling Pack kit concept has been well-received since its inception and today FRPP has a Handling Pack for just about every '05-'13 Mustang—be it a V-6, GT, or GT 500.

Many of these upgrade parts are used on FRPP's turn-key race cars, such as the Boss 302S race car, and have tens of thousands of track-proven miles on them. Of course, you don't have to be a track fanatic to want a well-balanced handling Mustang, even for daily use. The Handling Pack suspension kits are indeed track-ready, but they won't beat you up on your daily commute. The included lowering/handling springs drop the S197 a good inch (1.25-inches for the SVT-based kits), which drastically increases the Mustang's road manners and more importantly its looks.